- Lifespan
- 10–20 years in the wild; one individual recorded at over 20 years old
- Size & Weight
- 45–47 cm, wingspan 93–104 cm; 370–650 g
- Habitat
- Open woodlands, farmland, moorland, coastal cliffs, parks, and gardens across lowland and upland regions.
- UK Distribution
- Found throughout England, Wales, and parts of Scotland; resident year-round with populations supplemented by Continental birds in winter.
- Diet
- Omnivorous; feeds on carrion, small mammals, birds, insects, earthworms, grain, and fruit. Also scavenges human food waste.
- Prey
- Nestlings of other bird species, small mammals (voles, mice), insects, and earthworms.
- Predators
- Golden Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and occasionally Red Kites; chicks vulnerable to foxes and larger gulls.
- Mating Season
- February to July, with peak activity March to May.
- Breeding
- Clutch of 3–6 eggs; incubation period 18–21 days; fledging at 32–36 days. Single brood per year, occasionally two.
- Behaviour
- Highly intelligent and social, often seen in pairs or small groups. Known for caching food and problem-solving. Males are territorial during breeding season.